Regular facial peeling is a mandatory procedure at any age. On sale you can find a huge number of products separately for the face, body and lips. There are also a huge number of traditional methods, one of which is soda peeling.
Photo: Depositphotos.com. Author: valuavitaly.
This substance is available to everyone and is sold in any grocery store.
Benefits of the procedure for facial skin
Baking soda effectively cleanses problem areas of the face, so it is often used for acne and blackheads.
Benefits of soda peeling:
- cleansing Small grains of soda remove particles of “old” skin and remove grease. Old skin is the dying outer layer of the epidermis, which changes over time;
- getting rid of pimples and blackheads. Soda has an anti-inflammatory and healing effect, which helps eliminate acne faster, without giving it any opportunity to reappear;
- elimination of peeling and dry skin;
- increased microcirculation. This procedure activates metabolic processes, due to which the skin becomes more elastic, acquires a snow-white tint, and the face looks much younger.
Mechanism of action
The peeling effect on the dermis is due to several properties of baking soda, namely:
- The product in powder form acts as a soft scrub and helps exfoliate the horny scales of the epidermis.
- Soda is sodium bicarbonate (other names are sodium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate), which upon contact with water gives an alkaline reaction. And the alkaline solution causes disinfecting, drying effects, and also helps cleanse pores (blackheads) by saponifying fats; in other words, alkali dissolves fat in the pores.
Effects of the procedure on the skin:
- cleansing;
- removal of horny scales;
- tone alignment, relief, lightening;
- surface disinfection;
- cleansing pores, blackheads, comedones;
- getting rid of small wrinkles;
- elimination of peeling;
- removal of dandruff on the head;
- reducing the number of inflammations and acne.
Peeling composition
Experts recommend not using soda peeling in its pure form, but adding a variety of ingredients. The product may be slightly aggressive for the surface of the face. If you want a more noticeable result, you should use components whose properties are at the level of soda particles.
Ingredients that are added to soda peeling:
- face wash gel;
- shaving foam;
- egg yolk;
- peroxide;
- lemon or aloe juice;
- sugar;
- salt;
- a variety of nourishing and essential oils.
Peeling the face and scalp with baking soda: reviews
Marina: “I did the procedure out of curiosity. I just didn’t believe that regular soda could be better than professional products. To my surprise, the product turned out to be more effective, and most importantly gentle, than the scrubs that I buy from the catalogue. Now I exfoliate regularly. Sometimes I mix salt with soda.”
Varya: “Simply put, soda is a savior! No amount of masks, strips or squeezing could get rid of the hated black specks all over my nose. Salon procedures left unsightly, huge holes in clean pores, which was also not pleasing. I just started thoroughly washing my nose with soda peeling and liquid baby soap, and after about 10-12 days I didn’t find a single spot!”
Peeling effectiveness
If you do everything correctly, then after 2-3 sessions improvements will become visible: the number of acne will decrease, microwrinkles will smooth out, freckles will lighten, and the skin surface will not suffer from excess fat.
Important! The procedure should be carried out for normal and oily skin no more than twice a week, for dry skin types - once a week. The course should not exceed 10–12 times, after which a break is taken for several months.
How does a salt and soda scrub work?
The upper stratum corneum can be cleaned either mechanically or chemically.
- Mechanical cleaning. Produced due to solid particles in the composition of the product. This could be fruit seed powder, bone meal, or minerals. Among them is table salt.
- Chemical cleaning. This is achieved by breaking down the bonds that hold the top layer of cells on the surface of the skin. The most famous representatives of this group are food acids. These also include sodium bicarbonate - soda.
A salt facial scrub belongs to one type of cleanser, and a soda scrub belongs to a completely different type. That is why they are often combined when used at home to achieve a double effect.
Soda: positive properties...
Sodium bicarbonate is famous for its ability to neutralize the effect of any acids (food and non-food), as well as break down vegetable and animal fats. Plus, it has mild anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Therefore, among the positive effects of using a soda facial scrub, the following can be noted.
- Eliminate excess fat. Moreover, not only from the surface of the skin (this can be easily achieved by washing), but also from the pores of the sebaceous glands, where it can accumulate in the form of comedones.
- Exfoliation of dead cells. Here it is achieved by dissolving the same sebum, which to a large extent helped them stay on the surface of the skin, “sticking” to it.
- Narrowing of skin pores. This is the inevitable effect of drying the stratum corneum and removing comedones.
- Removing cosmetic residues. First of all, this applies to foundation, concealer and powder.
...negative properties
But you can also find a lot of negative reviews about soda scrubs, since they also have a lot of disadvantages. The main ones are given below.
- Shifting the skin balance towards the alkaline side. An alkaline environment is more favorable for the growth of bacteria and fungi than a neutral or acidic environment. That’s why it makes more sense to disinfect the skin with an acid solution rather than an alkali solution.
- Degreasing the skin. If in the short term a soda scrub helps with blackheads and eliminates oily shine, then in the long term the oiliness of the skin may increase further due to its regular “drying” in this way.
- Peeling too deep. Sodium bicarbonate is a substance with abrasive properties. Plus, unlike salt, it does not completely dissolve in water. Therefore, if you rub too vigorously, there is a risk of removing from the surface of the skin not only already dead cells, but also some of the living ones.
Soda cannot be used as a scrub for inflammation and rashes on the skin, the presence of malignant neoplasms, scars and wounds in the area of its application. It is not recommended for use in cases of hypersensitivity and rosacea.
Salt: positive properties...
Compared to baking soda, salt is relatively safe. This does not mean that a salt scrub for your face will be less effective. On the contrary, salt is necessary for all cells of our body because it regulates the exchange of fluid in them. Among the beneficial properties of sodium chloride can be emphasized.
- Increasing the skin's ability to retain water. This prevents it from drying out and reduces the need for moisturizers.
- Softening the stratum corneum. Sometimes this eliminates the need for frequent scrub use.
- Acceleration of regeneration. It is achieved by improving capillary blood supply - the key to renewing the stratum corneum.
- Light antiseptic effect. It is not higher than that of soda, but not lower than that of soda, since sodium chloride is also not the most favorable environment for the survival of bacteria.
...negative properties
The negative aspects of using a salt facial scrub come down to its ability to corrode any existing damage to the stratum corneum. In addition, unlike soda, it varies in grinding and content. And attempts to use coarse crystalline salt with an unknown composition as a scrub can end in failure.
Despite the popularity of facial scrubs made from sea salt and other varieties, you should be careful with them. The unique mineral composition of salt of one origin or another can improve the cosmetic effect of its use. But to do this, we must be absolutely sure of the list of components that are included in it, and that we have no contraindications to any of them.
Preparatory stage
Before using soda, be sure to clean the surface of your face from dirt and cosmetics, otherwise grains of soda will rub harmful substances into the skin. The face must be washed with water and a special gel or milk. After cleansing, it is recommended to warm up the skin and steam it in a bath. For this purpose, take dried chamomile or mint, add hot water, let it brew for 10–15 minutes, and then use it for its intended purpose. The face is lowered over hot water and remains in this position for 10 to 20 minutes. After using the bath, you can begin peeling.
The product can be used at any time of the year, but it is still not recommended to use it in winter, replacing it with something more gentle. This is explained by the fact that in winter the skin often suffers from a lack of moisture, becoming dry, and this procedure can only worsen the situation.
Contraindications
Baking soda is a universal remedy approved by cosmetologists.
However, for each skin type, preparations are selected individually. In addition, it is necessary to monitor the body's reaction to each new drug.
Soda is not recommended for use under the following conditions:
- too dry skin - due to the absorbent effect, there is a risk of reducing the already low level of secretion of the sebaceous glands;
- damage to the skin, including wounds, scratches, ulcers that form at the site of acne;
- inflammatory reactions - it is better to skip areas with acne so as not to injure the epidermis;
- allergic reactions - unlike pure soda, other components of soda scrubs can cause redness, itching, irritation or a rash on the face;
- too tanned skin - in the hot season or after visiting a solarium, the top layer is too dry, and it is undesirable to use scrubs.
Attention! Owners of this skin type should not experiment - peeling even with the most gentle methods may be contraindicated for them.
Peeling recipes
All components for preparing soda-based peeling can be found in every home, so there will be no difficulties in finding ingredients.
The most effective peelings with soda for the face:
With hydrogen peroxide
To prepare, you need baking soda and three percent hydrogen peroxide. One teaspoon of baking soda is mixed with peroxide until a liquid mass is formed.
The resulting composition is rubbed into problem areas for 1–2 minutes. Then remove the product with water and distribute a rich cream onto the face. If desired, you can add a couple of drops of tea tree oil.
This peeling whitens the skin and effectively removes blackheads.
Peeling with salt
Mix the main components in equal quantities: 1 salt and soda (about one teaspoon each), dilute them with three teaspoons of boiled cooled water. Using a cotton swab, apply the mixture to problem areas (usually the T-zone), massage a little and rinse with cool water. Lubricate your face with tonic or protective cream.
A scrub with soda and salt is used for very oily skin to get rid of oily shine and acne problems.
With the addition of sour cream
Mix a teaspoon of soda with a small amount of low-fat sour cream. The mixture is transferred to the face, and after 20 minutes, remove the mixture from the face with warm water.
This composition perfectly whitens freckles and acne spots, and smoothes out wrinkles.
Recipe with honey
Fresh honey is mixed with soda in a 2:1 ratio. Mix the mixture thoroughly and apply in circular motions to the face. Massage the skin for about a minute, then rinse with cool water.
This composition will help get rid of open and closed comedones, normalizing the functioning of the sebaceous glands.
With aloe juice
Add aloe juice to a teaspoon of soda until a thick mass is obtained. The mixture is gently rubbed into problem areas on the face. Leave for 15–20 minutes, then remove the mixture with warm water and apply a nourishing cream.
The ingredients included in the composition will help get rid of inflammation, eliminating red color and swelling.
Peeling with shaving cream
In a bowl, combine baking soda and shaving cream in equal parts. The mixture is applied with rubbing movements to problem areas of the face. Walk with it for 15 minutes, then rinse with slightly hot and then cool water.
This peeling perfectly exfoliates aged skin and helps get rid of uneven complexion.
Sugar-soda peeling
Sugar and soda are mixed in equal parts and applied to the skin. Massage problem areas of the face for about 2 minutes, after which the mass is allowed to harden. As soon as the mixture hardens, it is removed with a cloth soaked in water and a moisturizer is applied.
This composition effectively removes peeling and also perfectly smoothes wrinkles.
Advice. You can experiment with the composition of the product to obtain combinations that will be even more effective.
Answers to the most frequently asked questions
Can the product harm the skin?
Yes, it can, if you do not follow the rules for its implementation and perform it if there are contraindications.
Can the procedure be performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
It is possible, since the product contains no dangerous ingredients.
I know that peeling the scalp with soda has positive reviews on the Internet, do you think it can be done if you have a problem with hair loss?
If your hair is falling out a lot, it's best to see a doctor before trying anything at home.
After watching a video on soda peeling, I wanted to do it at home, and I saw the recipes in your article. Is it possible to add something else in addition to the indicated ingredients (for example, tea tree oil for acne)?
Recipes can be supplemented and try something new. The most common additions are honey to nourish the skin, tea tree oil to fight inflammation, and fruit to enhance the peeling effect.
Is it possible to exfoliate the face and body at the same time?
You can, since exposure to sodium bicarbonate is safe.
I saw information on the Internet that for acne, you can add a few drops of hydrochloric acid to the basic peeling composition, will it improve the effect?
Hydrochloric acid is not recommended for use in cosmetology; the product is effective without it.
How long does it take for the skin to heal after the procedure?
After the procedure, the face may turn red, but this redness goes away within an hour. This remedy almost never has a negative effect that requires additional recovery.
After using the product, it is advisable to apply a nourishing facial cream. Also, you should not scrub your skin while undergoing a healing course with soda particles.
The results from the first peeling application last for 2-3 days. As most of the procedures are completed, the effect will last for about a month.
Rules of application
Peeling with soda is allowed no more than once a week. In order for the procedure to give a positive result, several rules must be followed:
- Use only fresh soda for procedures; to achieve maximum effect, it is recommended to dissolve it in mineral or pre-filtered water. Distribute the product evenly over the entire face with your fingertips, avoiding the lips and eyes.
- Massage your face for 2-3 minutes, then leave the composition for 10 minutes and repeat the massage.
- Rinse off the remaining peeling with warm water, then dry your face with a napkin.
After soda peeling, moisturizer or a little olive oil is applied to the face to consolidate the effect.
Before using any product containing this substance, it is important to do an allergy test.
To do this, the mixture is applied to the elbow crook for 15 minutes - if, after time, no redness or other unpleasant sensations appear, you can safely use the selected composition.
Opinion of cosmetologists
Some cosmetologists claim that this product is harmful to the surface of the face, others say that when used correctly, at the end of the course, women get healthy and clean skin:
It's all about individual tolerance of the ingredients. If the redness does not go away and your face stings, then you should abandon the procedures and replace the peeling with a neutral agent.
If the skin surface behaves calmly during use and after peeling, then you can safely continue the course of treating the skin with the product.
Little tricks: advice from a cosmetologist
- If there are large inflamed pimples on the skin, you need to increase the amount of water so that instead of powder you get a saturated solution.
- If necessary, enhance the exfoliating effect, you need to add coarser salt.
- The amount of oil directly affects the softening properties of the exfoliant, therefore, by adjusting its volume, you can achieve the required softness depending on your skin type and the problem being solved.
- If there is inflammation, after chemical peeling you can enhance its effect with salt applications.
Patient reviews
Baking soda helps women of different ages cope with facial skin problems.
For some, soda peeling does not give a noticeable result.
There are, of course, negative reviews about this procedure.
Peeling with baking soda for the face is an effective home way to get rid of imperfections on the surface of the face. The main condition for the success of this procedure is the correct use of the product - then the skin will be clean and healthy.
Benefits of soda cleansing
Considering the mechanism of action described above, as well as the large number of positive effects, we can safely talk about the benefits of such a procedure performed at home.
- Firstly, such peeling is not inferior to a similar procedure in a beauty salon in terms of effectiveness, but significantly saves money.
- Secondly, it is suitable for teenagers with problem skin, as it has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Thirdly, it helps with the first signs of aging, as it makes the skin more youthful and radiant, and removes fine wrinkles.
- Fourthly, it can be performed on pregnant women and while breastfeeding, since simple, safe ingredients are used.
Indications for testing
- Presence of blackheads, pimples, scars.
- Uneven facial tone.
- Age over 30, at the first signs of aging.
Contraindications for
- The presence of large purulent pimples (in this case, sodium bicarbonate is used not in powder form, but in the form of a solution).
- Wounds, scratches on the dermis.
- Increased sensitivity.
- Skin diseases.
How to narrow pores - cosmetic procedures
The technologies that aesthetic medicine centers use in their practice make it possible to achieve quick and long-lasting effects. Thanks to innovative techniques, the following results are achieved:
- deep exfoliation and cleansing;
- leveling the relief by grinding;
- elimination of post-acne and scars;
- activation of metabolic processes in the deep layers of the epidermis;
- regeneration at the cellular level;
- stimulation of collagen and hyaluronic acid production;
- evening out tone and achieving smoothness.
Cosmetic procedures for narrowing pores are used differently, each of them has its own characteristics.
Chemical peeling
The technique involves exposing the skin to acid. Depending on the composition of the drug, exfoliation can be superficial, medium and deep. To cleanse and narrow pores, the first two techniques are sufficient. Fruit, almond, and lactic acids are used. Salicylic peeling is suitable for skin with increased sebum secretion.
The procedures are characterized by safety, quick results and minimal risk of complications. The skin recovers after them in a short period, the effect lasts for six months. It takes 5 – 6 sessions to achieve the desired result. Exfoliation also gives a good anti-aging effect.
Hardware and manual cryotherapy
Thanks to the effects of cold, pores narrow, acne and its consequences are eliminated. Thanks to controlled treatment with liquid nitrogen, lymph flow and blood circulation are stimulated, and regeneration processes are enhanced. Inert gas tightens pores, smoothes the skin, tones, tightens contours.
Treatment is carried out in short exposure periods - 15 seconds is enough. After the procedure, a dense crust forms on the skin, which comes off on its own after a few days. After the session, the dermis becomes pinkish, and then acquires a beautiful shade, smoothness and velvety.
Microdermabrasion
Grinding of the epidermis using equipment and special attachments equipped with aluminum oxide crystals. Thanks to the effect, the surface layer of the skin is exfoliated, dead skin particles are removed, pores are narrowed, and blackheads disappear. The epidermis acquires an even color and structure.
The procedure is painless and does not require a long rehabilitation period. To achieve maximum effect, 4–6 sessions are required with a frequency of 1 in 10–14 days. It is better to carry out the procedure during the season of minimal solar activity: winter, spring and autumn.
Laser resurfacing
Modern cosmetology equipment allows you to achieve high results. The laser acts on the skin in a targeted manner, without affecting healthy areas. Innovative devices are equipped with cooling units, so the patient experiences virtually no discomfort during the procedure.
Before the session, preparation is required, the rules of which are explained by the cosmetologist. Care after grinding also plays an important role. The result is noticeable within a week - the pores are narrowed, the tone is evened out, the epidermis acquires a healthy glow and a beautiful color.
